In an intensive training program, Tecpetrol’s young talent dives deep into the technical side of the Oil & Gas industry while soaking up a one-of-a-kind cultural and social experience. Alan, a participant from the first edition, and Camila, who joined the most recent one, share how the TUIC experience has grown over the years.

Back in 2014, Alan Buchanan, a geologist with a passion for tackling new challenges, stepped into the very first edition of the Tecpetrol University Induction Camp (TUIC). “For my generation, this was quite a fresh concept,” Alan recalls. “The idea of bringing young professionals from different fields together for training was groundbreaking. We were the pioneers, and it turned out to be a great success.” Fast forward to today, and Alan has channeled that early experience into his role as an Exploration Geologist Expert.

A decade later, Camila Herrera offers a fresh take on the program, drawing from her experience as a Planning Analyst and participant in the latest edition. For her, the TUIC program was a great opportunity for growth. “If I had to sum it up in one word, it would be ‘fruitful,’” she shares. “I learned so much, especially on the technical side. As an accountant, I needed to deepen my understanding of areas like drilling and reservoirs. But what I value most is the networking—I connected with people from different operations, and I’m still in touch with many of them today.”

While Alan and Camila swap stories as colleagues, they quickly notice a common thread: the program’s dynamics have stayed consistent over the years, with out-of-office activities playing a big role in building connections. From catching live performances by the percussion group La Bomba del Tiempo or the immersive theater company Fuerza Bruta, to shared dinners and impromptu group outings, the social side of TUIC is one of its most cherished aspects.

TUIC's approach remains unchanged: to immerse young professionals in various areas of the business, from deep underground to above the surface, during an intensive month-long program in Buenos Aires. Participants also get to visit El Tordillo and, as of last year, Fortín de Piedra, broadening their understanding of real-world operations. The experience is further enriched with contributions from Tecpetrol representatives and dynamic new activities, but the real star of the program is undoubtedly the simulator. This hands-on activity places participants in realistic decision-making scenarios for reservoir development. Teams must apply their technical knowledge to tackle challenges in energy resource exploitation and management.

“I especially remember the simulator,” says Alan. “It gave us a clear vision of the challenges we’d have to face in the industry. It was a controlled environment, but it reflected the realities of working in the field.” For Alan this was a defining moment, equipping him with the tools he needed to confidently navigate his career.

Camila also agrees that the simulator remains one of the program’s most impressive tools—but now with an upgrade that makes it even more impactful. "The exercise is far more interactive and realistic, reflecting the challenges we face daily,” she explains. “It puts us in high-risk situations, requires us to manage resources in real time and calls for strategic decisions that directly affect outcomes. For those of us just starting at Tecpetrol, this kind of practical training is incredibly valuable."

Beyond the technical training, participants leave with a mix of social and professional experiences that enrich their lives in all kinds of ways. The diversity of backgrounds and experiences among participants is both a strength and a challenge, as it requires openness to integrate different points of view. Alan and Camila both agree that adapting to new environments and teams is one of the most demanding yet rewarding aspects of the program. “It’s tough, but it’s a great way to learn how to manage change,” says Alan. Camila adds, “It’s an opportunity to step back from your personal and professional routine, reflect, and adapt.”

As TUIC continues to evolve, each new edition equips participants with cutting-edge skills and a deeper connection to the company’s mission. “Seeing new professionals so motivated and enthusiastic makes me proud,” says Alan with a nostalgic smile. “What was once an experiment has now become part of our culture.”

Camila sums it up perfectly: “Being open to change management is key. It’s all about how you seize these opportunities.” For the next generation of TUICers, the message is clear: they have all they need to ride this wave of transformation and make it their own.